Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, is located in southwestern Pennsylvania approximately 12 miles west of Altoona. Today's park covers 1500 acres. The main unit contains the Summit Level Visitor Center, the historic Lemon House, Engine House #6 Exhibit Shelter, the Skew Arch Bridge, picnic area and hiking trails. The Staple Bend Tunnel unit is located approximately 4 miles east of Johnstown, PA.

VISITATION:

Highest is in May through August and October; lowest is in December through February

since 10/98

LOCATION:

Cresson, PA

ADDRESS:

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
110 Federal Park Road
Gallitzin, PA 16641

TELEPHONE:

(814)886-6150

OPERATING HOURS:

Open 7 days a week year-round, closed Thanksgiving Day, December 25, and January 1.
Memorial Day through Labor Day, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Rest of the year, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

CLIMATE:

During the summer, it is generally warm. Summer mornings and evenings can be cool. Winters can be very harsh with cold temperatures, high winds, and snow possible from November through March.

DIRECTIONS:

The park is located just off U.S. 22 approximately 12 miles west of Altoona and 10 miles east of Ebensburg. Take the Gallitzin Exit and follow the signs.

TRANSPORTATION:

There is no public transportation to or within the park; personal vehicles only.

FEES, COSTS, RATES:

Adults 17 and older: $2.00. 16 and under: free.

FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES:

Visitor Center/Exhibits:
The Summit Level Visitor Center contains artifacts, exhibits, and models that help tell the story of the railroad. A full-scale model of the Lafayette, a locomotive used on the Portage Railroad, is a featured attraction. The visitor center includes a 60 seat auditorium where an introductory 20 minute orientation film is shown. A book sales area, restrooms, pay phone, and water fountain are also available at the visitor center. A wheelchair accessible boardwalk will lead you the short distance from the visitor center to the historic area of the park. On request an alternate form of transportation, for persons with walking difficulties, may be available to access the Lemon House from the visitor center.

The Lemon House was a tavern located adjacent to the railroad and was a common rest and dining stop for railroad passengers. This historic tavern's first floor has been restored to 1840 using both reproduction and period furnishings. Park visitors are able to learn more about the social and economic aspects of the railroad in the furnished tavern's bar room, dining room, parlor, and exhibit area.

The Engine House #6 Exhibit Shelter was built to preserve the remains of the original building at the head of Inclined Plane 6. A full-scale model of a stationary steam engine can be viewed from a wheelchair-accessible catwalk. This building also contains interactive exhibits on the railroad's technology.

Staple Bend Tunnel, America's first railroad tunnel, is located outside of the main park area in a remote location. Presently this area is being developed. It is closed to the general public, but information can be obtained at the visitor center for ranger guided hikes to the tunnel.

Other features within the park are a historic stone quarry, the Skew Arch Bridge, and stone sleepers (early railroad ties) and culverts along the railroad trace. A picnic area is a short drive from the visitor center or can be accessed via park trails. The park contains approximately 5 miles of hiking trails for foot traffic only. During the winter months the trails are used by cross country skiers.

Programs/Activities

From Memorial Day to Labor Day a variety of ranger programs are offered daily at the park, these include talks, tours, and historic trade demonstrations. All of these programs take place near the Engine House and Lemon House area.

During the summer and fall months a series of ranger led Heritage Hikes are offered on Sunday afternoons. These hikes travel to some of the hidden treasures of the Allegheny Portage Railroad outside the main park area. These hikes vary from 1-1/2 miles to 7 miles in length. Reservations are required.

A schedule of all ranger programs offered at Allegheny Portage Railroad NHS may be obtained at the visitor center.

Accessibility:

The Summit Level Visitor Center, Engine House #6 Exhibit Shelter, Lemon House, boardwalk, and picnic area are all wheelchair accessible.

Lodging/camping facilities:

Within the park there is neither lodging nor camping but both can be found in the surrounding area.

Food/supplies:

Within the park there is neither food nor supplies but both can be found in the surrounding area.

RESERVATIONS/PERMITS:

Reservations for school groups are accepted by phone. Please notify the park as soon as possible before the planned visit.

BASIC VISIT RECOMMENDATIONS:

Viewing the park's introductory 20 minute orientation film is the best way to begin your visit. A park ranger will be available in the visitor center to help you best plan your time while visiting the park. During the summer months, a 2 hour visit will generally allow you to view all of the major features at the park. A longer stay is suggested to partake in ranger activities, hiking, picnicking, etc. During the winter months, some facilities and resources are inaccessible during periods of heavy snow.

SPECIAL EVENTS/PROGRAMS:

Every Saturday evening during the summer months, the park's Evening on the Summit series takes place in the outdoor amphitheater. These free programs are presented by a variety of musical performers and speakers who focus on Pennsylvania's heritage.

Special children's programs are offered throughout the year. These interactive programs teach children about the natural and cultural resources found within Allegheny Portage Railroad NHS. Programs vary between different age groups. Reservations are required.

ADJACENT VISITOR ATTRACTIONS:

Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark
Johnstown Flood Museum
Gallitzin Tunnels Park
Altoona's Railroader's Museum
Baker Mansion
Prince Gallitzin State Park
Canoe Creek State Park
East Broad Top Railroad National Historic Landmark
Johnstown Flood National Memorial
Friendship Hill National Historic Site
Fort Necessity National Battlefield

Allegheny Portage Railroad NHS is part of the Path of Progress auto tour. This auto tour travels through a nine county area in southwestern Pennsylvania taking you to many national and state parks, museums, recreational areas, etc. To obtain information on these local sites, call the Path of Progress, 1-800-898-3636.

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Last Updated:Thursday, 31-Dec-98 10:35:34
http://www.nps.gov/alpo/
Author: Diane Garcia